What is the PPIHC?

The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (PPIHC), brought to you by Gran Turismo, also known as The Race to the Clouds, is an annual invitational automobile and motorcycle hill climb to the summit of Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain in Colorado, USA every year on the last Sunday of June. Founded in 1916 by Spencer Penrose (also the founder of The Broadmoor Hotel, Pikes Peak Highway and El Pomar Foundation), The Broadmoor PPIHC takes place on a 12.42 mile (19.99 km) public toll-road boasting 156 turns, while competitors climb 4,720 ft. (1,440 m.) from the 9,390 ft. (2,862 m.) Start Line at Mile 7 marker on the Pikes Peak Highway to the 14,115 ft. (4,300 m) Finish Line at the mountain’s summit. As the drivers climb toward the summit, the thin air slows reflexes and saps competitor’s mental and muscle strength in addition to robbing internal combustion engines of up to 30% of the power they are capable of at the Start Line. Competitors and vehicles must be in top shape and condition simply to finish, let alone win. The race is self-sanctioned and is the most diverse one day motorsports event in the world with everything from Sidecars, Motorcycles, and 1,400+hp EV & Unlimited Racers being able to compete in the same event.

Mountain Facts

The view from Pikes Peak inspired Katharine Lee Bates to write “America the Beautiful” after visiting the summit in 1893. Hosts 5.9 million visitors a year, making it the No. 1 tourist attraction in the State of Colorado. Is the second most visited mountain in the world with only Mount Fuji attracting more visitors annually.

Racing Facts

Since its completion in 1916, the 12.42 miles of Pikes Peak Highway leading to the 14,115ft. summit of Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain has enjoyed a reputation as a terrifying and merciless route through Pike National Forest.